Police have raided stables at 10 properties around the country, as part of an investigation into alleged race-fixing in the harness racing industry.
Stock photo Photo: 123rf
Search warrants were executed at eight properties in Christchurch, one in Invercargill and another in Manawatu as part of Operation Inca, which is targeting race fixers.
Other media are reporting harness racing identities have been arrested as part of the raids.
Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson said the investigation into alleged corruption in the harness racing industry began with information supplied by the Racing Integrity Unit.
"Police take such allegations very seriously and are committed to working with the relevant bodies to ensure New Zealand sport is corruption-free."
Mr Anderson said police were currently speaking to a number of people, but should be able to provide further details in the coming days.
NZ Racing Board chair Glenda Hughes said today's raids were disappointing, but showed the racing integrity system
was working.
"The value of having an independent integrity body focused on investigating and prosecuting any alleged impropriety is reinforced in this action.
"Those involved in the industry and the Kiwi punters who support it must have confidence in the integrity of the sport."
The Minister for Racing said he was deeply disappointed about reports of race fixing.
Winston Peters said the raids highlighted the importance of the Racing Integrity Unit
He said while it was a sad development, New Zealanders needed to have confidence that the racing industry had integrity.